Treatment:

The goal is to treat the cause of the excess small intestinal bacteria growth. For certain conditions, antibiotics or drugs that speed intestinal movement (motility-speeding drugs) may be considered.

Treatment also involves getting enough fluids and nutrition.

Someone who is dehydrated may need intravenous (IV) fluids in a hospital. If the person is already malnourished, a type of nutrition given through a vein (total parenteral nutrition -- TPN) may be necessary.

Complications:

Severe cases lead to malnutrition. Other possible complications include:

• Dehydration
• Excess bleeding due to vitamin deficiency
• Liver disease
• Osteomalacia or osteoporosis